Sinn Fein MLA for Upper Bann, John O’Dowd, has said the “intimidation by loyalists in Portadown” of Sinn Fein election workers “is an attack on democracy” and is calling on unionist politicians to “stand squarely with Sinn Féin against such acts”.

He added: “The two workers were confronted by a group of men in Portadown and told to ‘get out of town’. They were shaken by the incident and left the area having to return later for one of their cars.

“The PSNI have been informed and we are told that they are following a line of enquiry.

“I am calling on all those involved in the election in Upper Bann to come out and stand squarely with Sinn Fein and those who were intimidated and condemn what happened in the strongest possible way.

“These is a clear onus on unionist politicians to show leadership in this situation and condemn those behind this intimidation and call for it to end.”

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The police confirmed they are investigating "after election workers were verbally abused in Portadown last night, Monday 22 May".

A PSNI spokesman said: "It was reported that at around 9pm a number of workers were erecting election posters on Mandeville Street when the male driver of a Ford Kuga car stopped beside them and shouted sectarian abuse at them before driving away.

"Police are treating this incident as a hate crime and are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident to contact officers in Portadown on 101 quoting reference number 1298 of 22/05/17."

They added that witnesses can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.